San Antonio's Straus seeks to light a fire under Senate on budget
AUSTIN -- House Speaker Joe Straus in an interview with the San Antonio Express-News on Monday expressed concern over the Senate's pace and direction on the state budget.
Straus, R-San Antonio, said quick action is needed for the two chambers to have a good chance to work out their differences “if we can.”
The Senate's introductory budget would spend far less than the House. Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, who presides over the Senate, hasn't signaled a propensity to embrace House leaders’ preference for using part of the state rainy day fund to avoid some reductions.
Lawmakers are facing a tight budget thanks to the effects of the oil and gas industry and past decisions to cut taxes and dedicate funding to transportation.
Read more: http://www.expressnews.com/news/local/article/San-Antonio-s-Straus-seeks-to-light-a-fire-10998263.php